Congress Foundation Day: Rahul appeals to defend the constitution
What's the story
On Congress's 133rd foundation day, Rahul Gandhi appealed to his party members that the Constitution is under threat. He said, Congress party and the citizens have to defend it.
He was referring to remarks made by MoS Anantkumar Hegde about changing the Constitution to remove the word "secular" from it.
As Congress president, Rahul also unfurled the flag in the presence of senior leaders.
BJP
'BJP operates on the basic idea of lies'
In his short speech, Rahul attacked BJP. He said, "What is happening today in our country is a web of deceit. The BJP operates on the basic idea that lies can be used for political benefit." He claimed this is the difference between Congress and BJP.
Further, he said Congress may lose and not do well, but will "not give up the truth."
Constitution
Rahul highlights Congress's contribution to India's independence
Rahul remarked that Congress has a "glorious history" and is responsible for India's independence.
He added that in India's history, the most important day was when we got our Constitution.
The Constitution's fundamental aim is to give equal rights to all Indians irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Thus, when "senior BJP leaders" attack constitution, it is Congress's duty to defend it, he said.
Challenge
On its 133rd anniversary, what is Congress's main challenge?
After the change of guard, Congress's main challenge is now to stay relevant, i.e. become the "grand old young party."
As the party has been relying on 2-3 powerful leaders in states, it led to factionalism. Congress also lost its connect with the grassroots.
Rahul will probably appoint young people in key positions and reach out to young voters ahead of 2019 LS elections.
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Meanwhile, as Rahul handles Congress presidency, mother Sonia is holidaying
Interestingly, in a reversal of sorts, ex-Congress president Sonia Gandhi is in Goa. As Congress president, Sonia often skipped holidays to look into the party's functioning, while Rahul went for vacations. Now, with Rahul helming Congress, Sonia finally gets the vacation she deserves!